More companies are taking on apprentices this year as employers realise the benefits of an apprenticeship programme.
Training provider AS Training has signed up 16 new companies so far this January, while Hays Travel is expanding its 2026 apprenticeship scheme to include Miles Morgan Travel, Travel House and Spears Travel for first time.
AS Training Managing Director Michelle Van Sprang said: “So far this month we have added 16 new employers who we have not worked with before, which is fantastic, as well as our returning existing employers.”
She says more companies are interested in taking on apprenticeships but are put off because they don’t understand how it works or don’t appreciate the benefits.
“We find that many employers are interested in taking on apprentices, but there is often a lack of understanding around how apprenticeships actually work. Once we explain the structure and the support involved, employers frequently say they can’t believe they didn’t do it sooner.
“Common misconceptions include the belief that apprentices must attend college for a significant amount of time, when, in reality, all of our training is delivered in the workplace.
“There is also often confusion around cost, with some employers assuming they have to pay for the training themselves. In most cases, the training is fully funded, and for apprentices aged 25 and under, employers do not pay National Insurance contributions, which is a major benefit.
“Another misconception we hear is that apprenticeship training isn’t specialist or tailored, often based on previous negative experiences. We work closely with employers to ensure the training is relevant, high-quality, and directly aligned with their business needs.”
New companies that have signed up this year include Ocean World Travel, Andrew Earle Travel, Horizon Holidays, Auria Travel and Involved Holidays.
Michelle says the typical duration is 12-15 months. Most apprenticeships start at Level 3 and can go up to Level 5.
“In most of our cases – almost 97% – apprentices are kept on. The idea is the organisations invest in them with our training and a positive work environment they are investing in a fantastic long term team player.
“A large proportion of our apprentices are ages 16-24, however we do have higher age apprentices on leadership and management, we go right up to Level 5, which is for senior level leadership. It’s equivalent to a foundation degree so naturally this is a higher age bracket.
“The apprenticeship route is a fantastic opportunity to lay solid foundations and also engage with not only the younger generation but those seeking to develop in their career.”
Meanwhile, Hays Travel has just opened applications for its 2026 intake.
Chief Operating Officer Jonathon Woodall-Johnston said: “Having started my own career as an apprentice, I know how valuable this scheme is.
“We were delighted to be recognised as a Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer again in 2025 and I know how hard our teams work to nurture the skills of our newest colleagues.
“Hays Travel is proud of its family values, so applicants can have every confidence they will be fully supported throughout their journey.”
Hays Head of Apprenticeships Rachael Allen said: “Our apprentices work towards a nationally recognised qualification with the support of our fantastic Learning and Development team – all while getting paid at the same time. The programme is a brilliant way to begin an exciting career path with the Hays Travel group.”
See also: Travel’s oldest apprentice passes with distinction
Pictured: Some of AS Training’s 2025 apprentice graduates and, inset, Michelle Van Sprang.
